Hospitality businesses in Manchester have banded together to raise funds for the Walk for Wellbeing event.
More than 1,000 people from across the hospitality industry participated in the initiative this October, in support of UK charity Hospitality Action.
The event, marking its fifth year, was launched on World Mental Health Day.
As a result, Walk for Wellbeing has raised £135,000, making it the charity’s largest annual mass participation fundraiser.
The initiative is not only about raising money but also about highlighting the importance of mental health and well-being.
At present, the leading cause of anxiety in the UK is financial worry and debt.
Since the start of 2024, Hospitality Action has witnessed a record number of calls to its helplines and grant applications, with the majority citing debt as the main source of anxiety, leading to mental health issues.
The funds raised will directly support hospitality employees and their families facing challenging times.
The event was created and run by hospitality talent and recruitment partner mum, in partnership with Caterer.com, Imperial London Hotels, Lifetime Training, Mews, and Peoplebank.
People from across the industry participated in 20km walks on Sunday, October 13 in nine UK cities, including Manchester.
Hosted by The Manchester Hoteliers Association, Manchester’s walk started at the Trafford Watersports Centre, with the waterside route taking in two water parks, the river Mersey and sections of the Trans Pennine trail.
In addition, hundreds of people chose to ‘Walk It Your Way’ between World Mental Health Day on October 10, and October 27.
Participants came up with various ways to get involved, from walking 10km in a nature reserve or along a local beach with friends and family, to holding walking meetings and team walkabouts.
A notable highlight this year was the record set by Hospitality Action Ambassador Charlie Hodson, who walked 155 miles from Norwich to London, raising £3,000 for the charity.
Matt Townley, chair of The Manchester Hoteliers Association, said: "It was wonderful to see such strong support for Manchester's walk again this year, and heartwarming to witness returners guiding and encouraging new walkers, creating a supportive atmosphere that truly embodies the spirit of the event.
"The sense of community built through this walk is remarkable, with everyone uniting not just for their own wellbeing, but to raise vital funds for such a worthy cause."
Mark Lewis, CEO of Hospitality Action, said: "Walking 20km in one go is not to be underestimated, so the fact that so many signed up to this rapidly growing national movement is testament to the importance of giving back.
"But this incredible event goes way beyond that.
"It’s also about prioritising one’s own mental health and wellbeing whilst also feeling part of a supportive and united team where open dialogue is actively encouraged. "
The sixth annual Walk for Wellbeing will take place next October, with hosted walks planned for Sunday, October 19, 2025.
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